Aster novae-angliae Andenken an Alma Pötschke

To cultivate Aster novae-angliae 'Andenken an Alma Pötschke', choose a location in full sun, as it requires plenty of light to flower well. Prepare well-drained soil, preferably rich in humus and slightly moist, although it can tolerate more ordinary, clayey and/or chalky soils. Before planting, it is beneficial to amend the soil with compost to improve its structure and water retention, especially in poor soils.

When planting, space the plants about 80 to 90 cm apart to allow sufficient air circulation and prevent diseases such as powdery mildew. Water regularly during dry periods, but avoid overwatering, as the plant dislikes waterlogged soil. It is advisable to pinch the stems several times before mid-July to encourage a more compact habit and prevent the plant from becoming too tall, which may require staking.

To maintain abundant flowering, divide the clump every 3 to 4 years in spring, as asters tend to become dense over time, which can reduce their vigour. Finally, a summer mulch can help retain soil moisture and reduce watering needs.

Aster novae-angliae 'Andenken an Alma Pötschke' is generally disease-resistant, but the plant may be susceptible to certain issues, particularly powdery mildew and rust in conditions of poor air circulation or excessive moisture. However, these problems can largely be avoided by planting the aster in a sunny spot with good air movement and avoiding overwatering.

Another issue to watch for is downy mildew, which can affect asters in damp conditions. To minimise risks, regular pruning to aerate the plant and avoiding overcrowding are recommended.